Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach propose new strategies to curb GHG emissions

The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach in the US have proposed new plans to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from trucks and cargo-handling equipment being used at the port in the new draft of San Pedro Bay Ports' Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP).

The proposals also include expanding programmes that reduce emissions from ships. They focus on freight infrastructure investment, innovation and technology to improve supply chain efficiency and comprehensive energy planning.

It further features proposals to increase advocacy for stricter emissions standards and government incentives to help pay for projects that improve testing and commercialisation of zero and near-zero emission vehicles.

"The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are driving forces of our region’s economy."

Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti said: “The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are driving forces of our region’s economy, they should also be models for how we move toward a more sustainable future by balancing growth and environmental stewardship.

“The draft Clean Air Action Plan is an important step in our work to reduce air pollution in our communities, and take action on climate change.

“I look forward to working with Mayor Garcia to build on this progress and continue strengthening this plan in the coming months.”

Recently, the port representatives have unveiled the CAAP 2017 Discussion Document, which is comprised of new concepts under consideration for the third and new iteration of CAAP.

So far, under CAAP, the ports have reduced diesel particulate matter (DPM) by up to 85%, as well as cutting nitrogen oxides (NOx) in half, eliminating 97% of sulphur oxides (SOx), and reducing GHG by an average of 12%.